Cricket in the UAE — ILT20 and Dubai's Cricket Growth Explained

The UAE as Cricket's Second Home

The United Arab Emirates has become one of cricket's most important markets due to its large South Asian expatriate population. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah have hosted international cricket since the 1980s. Pakistan played home matches in the UAE for much of the 2000s and 2010s when security concerns prevented international teams touring Pakistan. Sharjah Cricket Stadium hosted legendary Pakistan vs India matches in the 1980s-90s.

International League T20 (ILT20)

The ILT20 launched in January 2023 as the UAE's first major T20 franchise league. Six teams compete across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah: Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates, and Sharjah Warriors. Like MLC in the USA, ILT20 attracted investment from IPL franchise owners — Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders. The league signed elite T20 players from around the world.

UAE National Team

The UAE national cricket team competed in ICC Associate events and appeared in the 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups. They have strong talent from the resident South Asian population. Players like Muhammad Waseem and Chirag Suri have become well-known in T20 leagues. The UAE Cricket Board has invested in facilities including the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.